The 21st century kitchen designer is spoilt for choice when it comes to specifying worksurfaces. But there are two important points to consider: function and visual impact. Function because, of course, the worksurfaces in a kitchen have to stand up to the daily wear and tear of food preparation. Visual impact, because the interplay between the chosen kitchen cabinets and worksurfaces is a critical element of kitchen design, and often provides the ‘wow’ factor.

At Design Matters, worksurfaces and upstands can be offered in a complete range of natural granites, from one of London’s top granite suppliers, with a choice of edge profiles. We also supply stunningly crafted Spekva hardwood worksurfaces, (right) in a range of fine, close-grained woods such as teak and walnut with the option of aluminium inlay. All woods come from sustainable sources, and bear the Spekva mark, which stands for excellence in wood.

Another surface with a track record for reliability and durability, Corian was created by DuPont more than 30 years ago. An advanced blend of natural materials and acrylic polymer, Corian is a stain-resistant, hygienic material with a satin finish, that comes in a wide range of colours and design options. Its solid beauty goes all the way through the material (unlike cheaper alternatives) and can be re-polished and refurbished. Corian will always add value to your new kitchen.

A newcomer to the DuPont range, Zodiaq offers the strength and beauty of natural quartz in a palette of dramatic colours, that can be used for both horizontal and vertical surfaces. A luxury finish, Zodiaq reflects and catches light and, like Corian, provides a range of design options to add value to your finished project.

With the advent of new technologies and increased product choice, glass is increasingly becoming an important feature of contemporary kitchen design. With your kitchen we can supply bespoke glass splashbacks, wallcoverings and worksurfaces manufactured by one of the country’s leading suppliers of glass to architects and designers, using cutting edge glass processing techniques. The image shown here (left) is an example of ‘cracked ice’ finish, produced by laminating a panel of toughened glass between two panels of annealed glass. When the panel is machined to its finished size, the toughened panel shatters in situ, leaving the cracked ice effect, which is available in a range of finishes and colours from mirror-backed in Blue, Green, Bronze, Grey, Rose or Silver, through to clear glass, or a combination of sheer tinted glasses.


See our planning advice pages for more inspiration.

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